Are Flying Cars Closer Than Ever Thanks To This Deal?

Lotus and Volvo parent company, Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, has recently finalized the acquisition of Terrafugia. If you’re already familiar with the name of that transportation startup, you’ve likely heard of the Transition, a flying car prototype that features retractable wings. The deal may accelerate the development and launch of street-to-sky transport that’s available for personal use.

With support from Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, Terrafugia has some ambitious plans for making flying cars a nearing possibility for drivers, albeit, a very adventurous and wealthy minority of them. The Transition, which requires access to a runway for takeoff, is due for a market release as early as 2019. Drivers/pilots will be able to cruise at speeds of 100 mph and travel within a flight range of 400 miles. For a reserve price of $10,000 and a two year wait time, the Transition can now be reserved to own.

Flying car enthusiasts may have something more like the TF-X when they think of going from their driveway to the skies. Without the need for a runway, all electric power, and a range of 500 miles, Terrafugia’s TF-X is very much like a flying luxury car and is expected to be more appealing to the average consumer compared to the more plane-like Transition. Release of the TF-X is expected in 2023.

The Future Of Private Luxury Travel?

By that time, flying cars may not be quite as ubiquitous as some hope, but they are expected to be more of a familiar sight in the skies. Uber is hoping to have its flying taxi program in operation as early as 2020. The competition for private vertical takeoff, street-to-sky vehicles is starting to heat up as well with companies like AeroMobil and Lilium now working on their own private crafts for affluent customers.

How will these developments shape the future of luxury and everyday transportation? Comment and tell us what you think of this story.